Variable Stiffness Beam

ABSTRACT

A beam assembly includes a first beam member and a second beam member. The first and second beam members are both flexible when separated from each other. The first and second beam members each include compression and tension elements. The first and second beam members can be joined to form a stiff beam by interleaving the compression elements of the first and second beam members.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/725,309, filed on Aug. 31, 2018, titled “Variably Rigid Beam”, having docket number 23003-02. U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number 62725309 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

In loading a typical beam in bending, there exists a compression side and a tension side as it relates to stresses. In terms of finite elements, one might imagine the beam as composed of an array of nodes connected by springs where nodes tend to move away from each other on the tension side and toward each other on the compression side with the neutral axis as something of a fulcrum. If the beam is thought of as a finite number of discrete layers, during bending as the beam takes on an arc shape, the length of a layer must extend (to stretch or compress) is theoretically equal to the arc length. The arc length for each layer is defined, in part, by the distance of the layer from the radius center. Thus, in the case of discrete layers there is slipping between layers during bending. In the case of a typical beam, this would be characterized as shear stress. As beam thickness reduces, bending stress reduces, assuming a displacement driven system.

BRIEF SUMMARY

One embodiment is a variable stiffness beam that overcomes drawbacks of previous beams by taking advantage of some of the factors mentioned above. In one embodiment, a tension member is characterized as elements that are well-suited to handle required tensile loads as well as common bending and torsion without inducing stresses that exceed material strength. A compression element is composed of elements that are well-suited for handling compression loads. Tension elements can be enabled to bend through principles of complaint mechanisms, pin joints, or other methods and modulate the compression side by adding or removing compression elements, thus controlling bending or flexibility and rigidity in the overall beam. This can be done for single, bimodal, or multimode bending. This has several advantages and applications, as will be set forth in more detail below.

One embodiment is a beam assembly including a first beam member. The first beam member includes first tension elements and first compression elements. The beam assembly includes a second beam member. The second beam member includes second tension elements and second compression elements. The first and second beam members are configured to join together to form a beam by interleaving the first and second compression elements.

One embodiment is a device including a first beam member. The first beam member includes a plurality of first flexible elements and a plurality of first protrusions each protruding relative to the first flexible elements and each positioned between two first flexible elements. The device includes a second beam member including a plurality of second flexible elements and a plurality of second protrusions each protruding relative to the first flexible elements and each positioned between two second flexible elements. The first and second beam members are configured to join together to form a beam assembly by interleaving the first and second protrusions.

One embodiment is a device including a first beam member. The first beam member includes a substantially flat top surface and an uneven bottom surface defined by an array of first protrusions protruding downward. The device includes a second beam member. The second beam member includes a substantially flat bottom surface and an uneven top surface defined by an array of second protrusions protruding upward. The first and second beam members are configured to be joined together as a beam assembly by interleaving the first and second protrusions. When the first and second beam members are joined together, the beam assembly has a flexibility that is at least an order of magnitude lower than a flexibility of either the first and second beam members when they are separated from each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a simplified block diagram of a beam assembly in a separated state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a block diagram of the beam assembly in a joined state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a beam assembly in a partially joined state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 2A in the partially joined state.

FIG. 2C is a side view of the beam assembly of FIG. 2A in the joined state.

FIG. 3A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 4A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 5A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 6A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the beam assembly of FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of a portion of the beam assembly of FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 9A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10A is a side view of a beam member, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 B is a perspective view of the beam member of FIG. 10A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11A is a side view of a beam member, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the beam member of FIG. 11A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the beam assembly according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15A is a side view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a first beam assembly and a second beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19A is a side view of a beam assembly in a partially joined state, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 19A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20A is a side view of the beam assembly in a partially joined state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 20B is an enlarged view of a portion of the beam assembly of FIG. 20A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20C is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 20A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21B is an enlarged view of a portion of the beam assembly of FIG. 21A, according to an embodiment. FIG. 21C is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 21A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 23A is a side view of a beam assembly in a partially joined state, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the beam assembly of FIG. 23A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a beam assembly system 138, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the beam assembly system of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a beam assembly and a curve component, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 26B is a side sectional view of the curve component of FIG. 26A, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a beam storage and a beam assembly, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 27B is a side sectional view of the beam storage and the beam assembly of FIG. 27A, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion describes several embodiments of beam assemblies. Some of the beam assemblies include multiple beam members. The beam members are described as being “flexible” or “substantially flexible” when they are separated from each other. The beam assemblies are described as being stiff or having reduced flexibility when the beam members are joined together. In some cases, the difference in stiffness or flexibility between joined and separated states is described as being an order of magnitude or more. In these cases, the flexibility can correspond to the linear deflection as calculated for cantilevered beams or for simply supported beams. As used herein, stiffness can correspond to the inverse of deflection.

Thus, in one example, deflection of a beam, a beam assembly, or a beam member can correspond to the downward deflection of the beam, beam assembly, or beam member if it were cantilevered and a downward force was applied. When comparing the deflection (flexibility) of beam assemblies or beam members, the deflection is assumed to be calculated for a same beam length, material, and applied force.

As used herein, the term “tension element” includes, but is not limited to, portions of a beam or member that enable the beam or member to flex, bend, or pivot. As used herein, the term “compression element” includes, but is not limited to portions of a beam or member that protrude from the tension elements or that protrude relative to the tension elements. Compression elements can include elements that impede flexing. Accordingly, the tension elements can correspond to flexing elements, and the compression elements con correspond to protrusions.

As used herein, the term “order of magnitude” corresponds to a factor of ten. Accordingly, one order of magnitude is a factor of 10, two orders of magnitude is a factor of 100, etc.

FIG. 1A is a simplified block diagram of a variably rigid beam assembly 100 in a disassembled state, according to one embodiment. The variably rigid beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes tension elements 104 a and compression elements 106 a. The second beam member 102 b includes compression elements 106 b and tension elements 104 b. As will be set forth in more detail below, in the separated state the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b have a first flexibility. In the joined state, the variably rigid beam assembly 100 has a flexibility that is significantly lower than the flexibilities of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state.

In one embodiment, the tension elements 104 a enable flexing of the first beam member 102 a when the first beam member 102 a is separated from the second beam member 102 b. The tension elements 104 a are elements suited to handle tensile loads and to accommodate bending and torsion without inducing stresses that exceed material strength. Thus, in one sense, the tension elements 104 a can be thought of as joints that enable bending or flexing. In the separated state, the overall flexibility of the first beam member 102 a is relatively high due to the tension elements 104 a.

In one embodiment, the compression elements 106 a include elements that are suited for handling compression loads. As will be set forth in more detail below, the compression elements 106 a assist in providing rigidity to the beam assembly 100 in the joined state.

In one embodiment, the tension elements 104 b enable flexing of the second beam member 102 b when the second beam member 102 b is separated from the first beam member 102 a. The tension elements 104 b are elements suited to handle tensile loads and tend to accommodate bending and torsion without inducing stresses that exceed the material strength. Thus, in one sense, the tension elements 104 b can be thought of as joints that enable bending or flexing of the second beam member 102 b. In the separated state, the overall flexibility of the second beam member 102 b is relatively high due to be tension elements 104 b.

In one embodiment, the compression elements 106 b include elements that are suited for handling compression loads. As will be set forth in more detail below, the compression elements 106 b assist in providing rigidity to the beam assembly 100 in the joined state.

FIG. 1B is a block diagram of the beam assembly 100 in a joined state, in accordance with one embodiment. In the joined state, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together in a stable configuration. In the joined state, the beam assembly 100 is significantly less flexible than are either of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state. For example, in the joined state, the beam assembly 100 has a flexibility that is at least an order magnitude less than the flexibility of either of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state.

In one embodiment, the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b, and the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b are arranged to enable the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b to stably join together. In the joined state, the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b are interleaved together. In particular, in the joined state, each first compression element 106 a is positioned between two compression elements 106 b. Likewise, in the joined state, each second compression element 106 b is positioned between two first compression elements 106 a.

In one embodiment, in the joined state, first compression elements 106 a are in contact with the second tension elements 104 b. Likewise, the second compression elements 106 b are in contact with the first tension elements 104 a. The contact with compression elements results in significantly less flexibility for the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b in the joined state than in the separated state. Thus, in the joined state, the beam assembly 100 becomes significantly less flexible, or significantly stiffer than either of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 has several advantages over traditional beams. For example, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be rolled up for easy storage and transport. This is because the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be separated from each other. In the separated state, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are highly flexible. This high degree of flexibility enables storage and transport of the beams in a rolled up or otherwise bent configuration.

In one embodiment, another advantage of the beam assembly 100 is that the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be made from materials that, by themselves, do not provide a stiffness that could support much weight without an unacceptable level of bending. Traditional beams are made from materials that are relatively stiff, such as solid wood or metal. These traditional materials have a thickness that results in relatively little bending under expected loads. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be made from materials that, by themselves, are not stiff enough to support a desired load, but when joined together as described above, provide sufficient stiffness for the desired load.

In one example, a traditional shelf for a kitchen cupboard may be made from a solid piece of wood. The flexible beam 100 can replace the traditional shelf using materials that are less expensive than wood. For example, each of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b may be made from a relatively thin and inexpensive plastic material. If either of the first or second beam members alone 102 a, 102 b were placed as a shelf in a cupboard, the first or second beam members 102 a, 102 b would not support the weight of typical kitchen implements such as bowls, plates, or glasses without an unacceptable level of bending or without collapsing completely. However, when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together and placed as a shelf in the cupboard, the beam assembly 100 is sufficiently stiff to support the typical kitchen implements. The flexible beam 100 can be implemented in a large variety of applications. The flexible beam 100 can act as a tabletop, a top of a bench, a seat, a tray, a closet shelf, or in any of a large number of typical implementations in which a flat surface will be used to support weight or will act as a covering.

In one embodiment, the flexible beam 100 can be used in heavy-duty applications. For example, the beam assembly 100 can be utilized as a bridge that can be quickly assembled for emergency situations. Because the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be rolled up, the first and second beam members can be carried in the rolled up state in the back of a truck. The beam assembly 100 can be rapidly placed in the joined state and laid as a bridge for vehicles or personnel to pass over obstacles such as running water, ditches, or ravines.

In one embodiment, the dimensions of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are selected based on the selected application of the beam assembly 100. The dimensions of the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b, and of the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b can be selected based on the anticipated load that will be placed on the beam assembly 100 in the joined state. Larger dimensions can be used for heavier loads.

In one embodiment, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be made from a large variety of materials. For example, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be made from polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, ABS, nylon, polycarbonate, or other types of polymers. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can also be made from fibers such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiberglass, or other suitable fibers. In one embodiment, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can include a polymer material with embedded fibers. The embedded fibers can augment the strength of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can include embedded cables or straps to augment the strength of polymers or fibers. For example, the embedded cables or straps could include metals such as iron, steel, aluminum, or other metals or alloys that can augment the strength of plastics or fibers.

Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that the beam assembly 100 can be made from a large variety of materials and can have a large variety of shapes and dimensions without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a beam assembly 100 in a partially joined state, in accordance with one embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The beam assembly 100 can be placed in the separated state by peeling the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b apart from each other. The beam assembly 100 can be placed in the joined state by pressing together the unjoined portions of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b.

In one embodiment, the first beam member 102 a includes first tension elements 104 a and first compression almonds 106 a. The first compression elements 106 a include protrusions extending downward from a top surface of the first beam member 102 a. The protrusions have a substantially rectangular cross-section, though they may be rounded at the corners. Each first compression element 106 a is positioned between two first tension elements 104 a, though if a first compression element 106 a is at an end of the first beam member 102 a, then that first compression element 106 a will only be connected to a single first tension element 104 a. Each first tension element 104 a extends between two adjacent first compression elements 106 a, though if a first tension element 104 a is at an end of the first beam member 102 a, then that first tension element 104 a will only connect to a single first compression element 106 a. The first tension elements 104 a are relatively thin compared to the first compression elements 106 a.

In one embodiment, the first tension elements 104 a have a length D1. The first compression elements 106 a have a thickness D2. The first tension elements have a thickness D3.

In one embodiment, the dimensions D1 and D2 are design parameters that are selected based on the application of the beam assembly 100. The greater the expected load that will be placed on the beam assembly 100, the larger the values of D1 and D2. The smaller the expected load that will be placed on the beam assembly 100, the smaller the values of D1 and D2.

In one embodiment, the ratio of D1 to D2 is between 0.4 and 0.8. The ratio can be smaller if greater stiffness is desired for the beam assembly 100 in the joined state. In one example, the ratio of D1 to D2 is about 0.6. The ratio can be larger if greater flexibility is desired for the beam assembly 100 in the joined state. The ratio of D2 to D3 is between 3 and 7. In one example, the ratio of D2 to D3 is about 5. The length of the compression elements 106 a is approximately the same as the length D1 of the tension elements 104 a. In practice, the length of the first compression elements 106 a may be slightly less than the length of the first tension elements 104 a, so that the first compression elements can interleave with second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the first compression elements 106 a are entirely solid. In other words, the first compression elements 106 a are not hollow, in one embodiment.

In one exemplary application, in accordance with one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 is designed to be used as a spice rack to hold common kitchen spices in a kitchen cupboard. In this case, D1 is about 0.15 inches, D2 is about 0.25 inches, and D3 is about 0.5 inches

In one exemplary application, in accordance with one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 is designed to be used as a bookshelf on which books will be set. In this case, D1 is about 1.25 inches, D2 is about 0.75 inches, and D3 is about 0.15 inches.

In one embodiment, the second beam member 102 b includes second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b. The second compression elements 106 b include protrusions extending upward from a bottom surface of the second beam member 102 b. The protrusions have a substantially rectangular cross-section, though they may be rounded at the corners. Each second compression element 106 b is positioned between two second tension elements 104 b, though if a second compression element 106 b is at an end of the second beam member 102 b, then that second compression element 106 b will only be connected to a single second tension element 104 b. Each second tension element 104 b extends between two adjacent second compression elements 106 b, though if a second tension element 104 b is at an end of the second beam member 102 b, then that second tension element 104 b will only connect to a single second compression element 106 b. The second tension elements 104 b are relatively thin compared to the second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the dimensions of the second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b are substantially identical to the dimensions of the first tension elements 104 a and the second tension elements 106 a. Because the dimensions are the same in the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are able to be fitly joined together in the joined state. In some cases, the ends of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b may be different from each other. For example, a first end of the first beam member 102 a may terminate with the first compression element 106 a, while a first end of the second beam member 102 b may terminate with a second tension elements 104 b. Likewise, the second ends of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b may have complementary compression and tension elements so that when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together in the joined state, the thickness of the beam assembly 100 is uniform from end to end. Alternatively, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b may have identical terminations, resulting in a minor reduction in thickness at the ends of the beam assembly 100 when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 2A in the partially joined state. The perspective view gives a clearer indication of the structure of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. For example, the perspective view illustrates that the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b and the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b have a uniform length along the width W of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. In alternative embodiments, it is possible that the first and second compression elements 1068, 106 b and the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b may have varying lengths along the width W of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b.

In one embodiment, the width W of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b is a design parameter selected based on the expected application of the beam assembly 100. Additionally, the total length of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b is selected based on the expected application of the beam assembly 100.

FIG. 2C is a side view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 2A in the joined state. In the joined state, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are completely joined together and the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b are interleaved with each other. Each first compression element 106 a is positioned between two second compression elements 106 b. Each second compression element 106 b is positioned between two first compression elements 106 a. Each first compression element 106 a is in contact with a second tension element 104 b. Each second compression element 160 is in contact with a first tension element 104 a.

In one embodiment, the interleaving of the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b, as well as the contact between compression elements and the opposing tension elements results in a very large reduction in flexibility of the beam assembly 100 in the joined state with respect to the flexibility of the individual first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state. This reduction of flexibility is based, in part, on the fact that the first and second tension elements 104 a, 104 b are not able to flex due to the interleaving of the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b. The interleaving of the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b reduces the flexibility of the beam assembly 100 in all dimensions or modes. The result is that the beam assembly 100 becomes very stiff. The beam assembly 100 can be used to support an application-specific amount of load without flexing or bending to an unacceptable degree.

In one embodiment, the total thickness T of the beam assembly 100 is D2+2*D3.

In one embodiment, the first and second beam members can be manufactured by stamping, injection molding, extrusion, 3D printing, or using other typical practices for manufacturing plastic members.

In the subsequent Figures, some embodiments are not shown in the fully joined state as in FIG. 2C. The various embodiments illustrated in the figures as being partially joined can each by fully joined as in FIG. 2C.

FIG. 3A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 3A includes first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes first tension elements 104 a, and first compression elements 106 a. The second beam member 102 b includes second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b of FIG. 3 a are substantially similar to the first and second beam members 102 a, of 102 b FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b of FIG. 3 are hollow. This hollow configuration provides several benefits, including increased flexibility in the separated state. This configuration also provides benefits that various connector pieces can be coupled within the hollow portion of the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b to enable various configurations of multiple in assemblies as will be shown and described with more detail in relation to FIGS. 24, 25.

The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are substantially flexible when separated from each other in the separated state. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 3A is substantially stiff when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together. In one embodiment, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b have a flexibility that is one or more orders of magnitude higher in the separated state than is the beam assembly 100 in the joined state.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 4A includes first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes first tension elements 104 a, and first compression elements 106 a. The second beam member 102 b includes second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 4A is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 3A, except that each first compression element 106 a includes a gap first 108 a. The first beam member 102 a also includes protrusions 110 a between the compression elements 106 a. Each second compression element 106 b also includes a second gap 108 b. The second beam member 102 b also includes protrusions 110 b.

In one embodiment, when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together, the first protrusions 110 a are positioned in the gaps 108 b. Likewise, the second protrusions 110 b are positioned in the gaps 108 a. This configuration promotes stiffness in the joined state and flexibility in the separated state.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 5A includes first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes first tension elements 104 a, and first compression elements 106 a. The second beam member 102 b includes second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 5A is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 3A, except that each first compression element 106 a includes a lateral protrusion 112 a and each second compression element 106 b also includes second lateral protrusions 112 b. In one embodiment, when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together, the collateral protrusions promoted his stability of the beam assembly 100 because they act as a sort of latching mechanism.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 6A includes first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes first tension elements 104 a, and first compression elements 106 a. The second beam member 102 b includes second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 6A includes similarities with the beam assemblies 100 of FIGS. 4A-C and FIGS. 5A-C. In particular, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 6A includes the gaps 108 a, 108 b, the protrusions 110 a, 110 b, and lateral protrusions 112 a, 112 b.

In one embodiment, when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together, the first protrusions 110 a are positioned in the gaps 108 b. Likewise, the second protrusions 110 b are positioned in the gaps 108 a. This configuration promotes stiffness in the joined state and flexibility in the separated state.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The assembly 100 of FIG. 7A is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 7A includes first and second reinforcers 116 a, 116 b. The reinforcers 116 a, 116 b help to strengthen the beam members 102 a, 102 b.

In one embodiment, the first reinforcer 116 a includes protrusions 118 a. When the first reinforcer 116 a is placed on the top surface of the first beam member 102 a, the protrusions 118 a protruding into the first compression elements 106 a. This greatly helps to strengthen the integrity of the first beam member 102 a. In one embodiment, the second reinforcer 116 b includes protrusions 118 b. When the first reinforcer 116 a is placed on bottom top surface of the second beam member 102 b, the protrusions 118 b a protrude into the second compression elements 106 b. This greatly helps to strengthen the integrity of the second beam member 102 b.

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 7A with the first and second reinforcers 116 a, 116 b coupled to the respective top bottom surfaces of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b, according to an embodiment. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 7B illustrates the protrusions 118 implanted into the compression elements 106 a, 106 b. In one embodiment, the first and second reinforcers 116 a, 116 b include metal. In one embodiment, the first and second reinforcers 116 a, 116 b included iron, steel, aluminum, or another metal or alloy.

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment. The reinforcers 116 a, 116 b are not coupled to the surfaces of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the view of FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C shows that the first reinforcer includes gaps 120 a corresponding to areas from which the protrusions 118 a are formed. The second reinforcer 116 b includes gaps 120 b corresponding to areas from the protrusions 118 b are formed.

FIG. 8A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The assembly 100 of FIG. 8A is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 8a includes first and second reinforcers 122 a, 122 b, and the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b include slots 124 a, 124 b. The reinforcers 122 a, 122 b help to strengthen the beam members 102 a, 102 b.

In one embodiment, the reinforcers 122 a include metallic cables or filaments that pass through each of the compression elements 106 a. The reinforcers 122 a can include iron, steel, aluminum, or other metals or alloys. Reinforcers 122 b include metallic cables or filaments that pass through each of the compression elements 106 b. The reinforcers 122 b can include iron, steel, aluminum, or other metals or alloys.

In one embodiment, when the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined, the reinforcers 122 a are positioned in the slots 124 b. Likewise, the reinforcers 122 b are positioned in the slots 124 a in the joined state.

FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of a portion of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8B more clearly illustrates the reinforcers 122 a, 122 b, and the slots 124 a, 124 b.

FIG. 9A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. Beam assembly 100 of FIG. 9A is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 9A is bent when in the joined state. This illustrates that the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be configured to form beams that are not straight. Instead, the beams can be bent in a desired or selected manner. The beam 100 of FIG. 9A is stiff in the joined state. FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a side view of a beam member 102 a, according to an embodiment. The beam member 102 a includes inserts 126 a joined with compression elements of the beam member 102 a to form an augmented compression element. A second beam member (not shown) can include complementary inserts to form augmented compression elements. The first and second beam members can then be joined together to form a stiff beam assembly 100 as described in relation to previous figures. FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the beam member 102 a of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a side view of a beam member 102 a, according to an embodiment. The beam member 102 a includes compression elements 106 a of varying length. A second beam member (not shown) in FIG. 11A can include complementary inserts intentional moments and compression elements to meet with the beam member 102 a in order to form a stiff beam assembly 100 in the joined state. FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the beam member 102 a of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are substantially similar to the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b of FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b have a bend 130. The bend 130 is present in the separated state and in the joined state. Thus, beam assemblies 100 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure can be manufactured with shapes that are not straight.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and the second beam member 102 b. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 13 is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 2A-2C, except that the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b have differing widths. In particular, the first beam member 102 a has a width W1, while second beam member 102 b has a width W2 that is greater than W1. Accordingly, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can have differing widths according to various embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 14 includes a beam member 102 b, a beam member 102 c, and a beam member 102 b. A beam member 102 a (not shown) can also be present.

In one embodiment, the beam member 102 c has tension elements 104 c and compression elements 102 c substantially similar to the tension elements and compression elements described in relation to FIGS. 2A-2C. The beam member 102 d has tension elements 104 d and compression elements 106 d substantially similar to the tension elements and compression elements described in relation to FIGS. 2A-2C.

In one embodiment, the beam members 102 c, 102 d are oriented perpendicular to the beam member 102 b. The compression elements 106 d and 102 c are positioned between, or interleaved with, the compression elements 106 b. In one embodiment, a beam member 102 a can be placed on top of the beam member 102 b.

FIG. 15A is a side view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a, a second beam member 102 b, and the third beam member 102 c. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b can be substantially similar to the beam members 102 a, 102 b of FIGS. 2A-2C. The third beam member can include compression 102 c elements that extend both upward and downward from tension elements 104 c. The first, second, and third beam members 102 a, 102 b, 102 c are substantially flexible when in the separated state.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 15 a is placed in the joined state by placing the beam member 102 c on the beam member 102 b and by placing the beam member 102 a on the beam member 102 c. In the joined state, the compression elements of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are positioned between, or interleaved with, the compression elements 102 c of the third beam member 102 c. The compression elements of the beam members 102 a, 102 b our contact with the tension elements 104 c. The beam assembly 100 is substantially rigid when the beam members 102 a, 102 b, 102 c are in the joined state. FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 16 includes two first beam members 102 a, and a second beam member 102 b. Each of the members 102 a has a width that is about half the width of the beam member 102 b. All the beam members 102 a, 102 b are substantially when flexible separated from each other. In the joined state, the beam members 102 a, 102 b are placed on the beam member 102 b substantially similar to how a first beam member 102 a is joined to the first beam member 102 b in FIGS. 2A-2C.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes three first beam members 102 a, and the second beam member 102 b. In the joined state, the first beam members 102 a are placed on the second beam member 102 b in a staggered manner.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a first beam assembly 100 a and a second beam assembly 100 b, according to an embodiment. The first and second beam assemblies 100 a, 100 b can be joined together perpendicularly as shown in FIG. 18. This can be accomplished by having a beam member 102 a of the beam assembly 100 b with a width that enables the compression elements of the beam member 102 a to fit between two compression elements of a beam member 102 b of the beam assembly 100 a

FIG. 19A is a side view of a beam assembly 100 and a partially joined state, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The first beam member 102 a is configured as a chain made up of a plurality of first chain links 140 a. The second beam member 102 b is configured as a chain made up of a plurality of second chain links 140 b. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b cooperate together to provide a beam assembly 100 that is substantially rigid one the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are joined together. Though not shown in the figures, in the fully joined state, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b of FIG. 19A form a flat beam when joined together, similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 2C.

In one embodiment, the first beam member 102 a includes a plurality of pins 141 a that connect the chain links 148 together. The pins 141 a enable rotation of the chain links relative to each other. Thus, the pins 141 a enable the first beam member 102 a to bend or flex. The pins 141 a enable the first beam member 102 a to be rolled up and stored when not joined with the second beam member 102 b.

In one embodiment, the second beam member 102 b includes a plurality of second pins 141 b that connect the second chain links 140 b together. The pins 141 b enabling rotation of the second chain links 140 b relative to each other. Thus, the second pins 141 b enable the second beam member 102 b to bend or flex. The pins 141 b able the second beam member 102 b the rolled up and stored when not joined with the first beam member 102 a.

FIG. 19B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 19A, according to an embodiment. When the first and second beam members are joined together, the first beam member 102 a is positioned on the second beam member 102 b such that the first chain links 140 a and the second chain links 140 b interleave with each other. When the first and second chain links 148, 140 b are interleaved with each, the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b are the joined state. In the joined state, the beam assembly 100 becomes substantially stiffer. In one example, in the joined state, the beam assembly 100 has a flexibility that is at least an order of magnitude less than the flexibility of either of the beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state. Another way to state this, is that the stiffness of the beam assembly 100 in the joined state is at least an order of magnitude greater than the stiffness of either of the beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state. In various embodiments, the flexibility of the beam assembly 100 in the joined state may be two orders of magnitude less than the flexibility of either of the beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state. In various embodiments, the flexibility of the beam assembly 100 in the joined state may be three or more orders of magnitude less than the flexibility of either of the beam members 102 a, 102 b in the separated state.

Accordingly, the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 19A, 19B of many of the same benefits of the previously described embodiments of beam assemblies 100. The beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 19A, 19B has an additional vantage that the chain links of the beam members 102 a, 102 b can be made entirely of metal or other very strong materials. In other words, the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 19A, 19B can be made of materials that are by themselves, highly stiff or inflexible. The flexibility of the individual beam members 102 a, 102 b is enabled by the pins 141 a, 141 b that join the links together. The overall flexibility is reduced by joining the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b together in the joined state. In one embodiment, the first and second beam members 120 a, 102 b of FIGS. 19A, 19B can include a metal such as iron, steel, or aluminum. Other highly stiff metals and alloys can be used.

FIG. 20A is a side view of the beam assembly 100 in a partially joined state, in accordance with one embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 20A includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes a plurality of tension elements 104 a and a plurality of compression elements 106 a. The compression elements 106 a include T-shaped members or protrusions that protrude downward from the top surface of the first beam member 102 a. The second beam member 102 b includes a plurality of second tensions members 104 b and second compression elements 106 b.

In one embodiment, the first and second beam 102 a, 102 b of FIG. 20A are individually flexible when separated from each other and collectively stiff when joined together. When joined together, the compression elements of each beam member inhibit the flexibility of the tension elements of the other beam member. The result is a relatively stiff beam assembly 100 in the joined state.

FIG. 20B is an enlarged view of a portion of the assembly 100 of FIG. 20A, according to an embodiment. The enlarged view more clearly illustrates how the first and second prescient members contact each other in the joined state. The enlarged view also more clearly illustrates how the first and second compression elements of each beam member contacts the tension elements of the other beam member.

FIG. 20C is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 20A. Though not illustrated, the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 20A-C can be fully joined together into a substantially flat and stiff beam.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. FIG. 21B is an enlarged view of a portion of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 21A. FIG. 21C is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 21A. The beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 21A-C is substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 20A-C, except that the first and second compression elements 106 a, 106 b include additional protrusions above or below the T-shaped protrusions, depending on the orientation. The beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 21A-21C function substantially similar to the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 20A-20C.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 includes a plurality of first beam members 102 a and a plurality of second beam members 102 b. The first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b of FIG. 22 are substantially similar to the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b FIGS. 5A, 5B.

In one embodiment, the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 22 illustrates how a relatively wide beam assembly 100 can be assembled by arranging multiple first beam members 102 a in a side-by-side arrangement and multiple second beam members 102 b in a side-by-side arrangement. The first beam members 102 a can be placed on top of the second beam members 102 b with a slight offset in a direction perpendicular to both the length and thickness directions of the beam assembly 100 this slight offset makes the beam assembly stable. Each individual first and second beam member 102 a, 102 b our substantially flexible in the separated state. The beam assembly 100 is substantially stiff in the joined state. Him

FIG. 23A is a side view of the beam assembly 100 in a partially joined state, in accordance with one embodiment. The beam assembly 100 of FIG. 23A includes a first beam member 102 a and a second beam member 102 b. The first beam member 102 a includes a plurality of first tension elements 104 a and a plurality of first compression elements 106 a. The compression elements 106 a correspond to vertical protrusions from the top surface of the first beam member 102 a. The second beam member 102 b includes a plurality of second tension elements 104 b and second compression elements 106 b substantially similar to the first tension and compression elements 104 a, 106 a.

In one embodiment, the first and second beam 102 a, 102 b members of FIG. 23A are individually flexible when separated from each other and collectively stiff when joined together. When joined together, the compression elements of each beam member inhibit the flexibility of the tension elements of the other beam member. The result is a relatively stiff beam assembly 100 in the joined state.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 23A. Though not illustrated, the beam assembly 100 of FIGS. 23A-B can be fully joined together into a substantially flat and stiff beam.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a beam assembly system 138, according to an embodiment. FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the beam assembly system 138 of FIG. 24. With reference to both FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, the beam assembly system 138 illustrates how multiple individual beam assemblies can be joined in various configurations.

As shown in FIG. 24, the beam assembly system 138 includes a first beam assembly 100 a, a second beam assembly 100 b, a third beam assembly 100 c, and a fourth beam assembly 100 d. In the example of FIG. 24, each of the beam assemblies includes hollow compression elements 102 a, 102 b as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B.

In one embodiment, the second beam assembly 100 b is attached at a right angle to an upper end of the first beam assembly 100 a. The connector pieces 147 and 148 connect the second beam assembly 100 b to the first beam assembly 100 a. Each of the connector pieces 147, 148 include protrusions that fit into the hollow compression elements of the second beam assembly 100 b and the first beam assembly 100 a to securely connect the first and second beam assemblies 100 a 100 b as shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25. The connector pieces 147 connect the connector piece 148 to the second beam assembly 100 b. The connector piece 148 then connects the beam assembly 100 b to the beam assembly 100 a at a right angle.

In one embodiment, connector pieces 142, 143 connect the beam assembly 100 a to the beam assembly 100 c. The connector piece 142 is a 90° curve enabling the beam assembly 100 c to connect to the beam assembly 100 a at a right angle with a gradual curve between the beam assembly 100 c and the beam assembly 100 a. The connector piece 142 includes tension elements and compression elements of the same shape and dimensions as the compression and tension elements of the beam assemblies 100 a, 100 c. The compression elements of the connector piece 142 are placed between compression elements of one of the beam members of the beam assembly 100. The connector pieces 143 include protrusions that fit within the hollow compression elements of the connector piece 142 and the beam assembly 100 a. A first connector piece 143 connects the first beam member of the beam assembly 100 a to the connector piece 142. A second connector piece 143 connects the connector piece 142 to a second beam member of the beam assembly 100 a. The beam assembly 100 c is then connected to the connector piece 142 in the same manner by two additional connector pieces 143.

In one embodiment, a T-shaped connector piece 140 connects the beam assembly 100 b to the beam assembly 100 c. The T-shaped connector piece 140 enables the beam assembly 100 b to extend that a right angle relative to the beam assembly 100 c from a midpoint of the beam assembly 100 c. The T-shaped connector piece 140 includes a first T-shaped connector piece 140 a and the second T-shaped connector piece 140 b. The T-shaped connector pieces 140 a, 140 include protrusions that fit within the hollow compression elements of the beam assembly 100 c and the beam assembly 100 d in order to securely couple the first beam assembly 100 c to the beam assembly 100 b.

In one embodiment, a connector piece 145 connects the beam assembly 100 to the beam sending 100 c in a side-by-side configuration. The connector piece 145 includes protrusions that are placed into the hollow compression elements of the beam assembly 100 c and the beam assembly 100 e.

In one embodiment, a sliding mechanism 146 is positioned around the beam assembly 100 d at an intermediate position on the beam simply 100 d. The sliding mechanism 146 can be slid along the length of the beam assembly 180 joined the beam members of the beam assembly 100 b together in the joint state. A locking piece 149 can be placed through an aperture in the sliding mechanism 146 into one of the compression elements of the beam assembly 100 d. The locking piece 149 and sliding mechanism 146 can be utilized to place a selected portion of the beam assembly 100 d in the joined state and the remainder of the beam assembly 100 d separated state. Additionally, the sliding mechanism 146 can be slid along the entire length of the beam assembly 100 d in order to place the entirety of the beam assembly 100 d in the joined state.

In one embodiment, a sliding mechanism 149 can be utilized to place any beam assembly into the joined state. The ends of two compatible beam members 102 a, 102 b can be joined and then passed into the sliding mechanism 149. The sliding mechanism 149 can then be slid across the length of the beam members 102 a, 102 b to fully join the beam members 102 a, 102 b together.

The various components 142, 143 145-149 enable various types of connections between beam assemblies. The specific configuration shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 given by way of example to illustrate possible types of connections impossible types of connector pieces so that multiple beam assemblies can be used to make complex structures with varied shapes. Those of skill the art will recognize, and like of the present disclosure, that other types of connector pieces are possible and that other types of connections are possible, without the parting from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a beam assembly 100 and a curve component 150, according to an embodiment. The component 150 can force a curve into the in assembly 100. The curve component 150 can have a selected radius of curvature and total angle of curvature. Accordingly, the curve component 150 can force a curve other than that shown in FIG. 26A.

In one embodiment, the curve component 150 is hollow. The beam assembly 100 a opening is fed into the curve component 150 until the beam assembly 100 protrudes from a second opening in the curve component 150.

FIG. 26B is a side sectional view of the curve component 150 of FIG. 26A, according to an embodiment. The curve component 150 includes a separator 150. As the beam assembly 100 is passed into the interior of the curve component 150, the beam assembly captures the separator 152. The separator 150 forces separation of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b in the location of the separator 152. The separation of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b enables the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b to become flexible location and availability. The beam members 102 a, to be can then curve location of the separator 152. As the beam assembly 100 continues to pass through the curve component 150, the second opening of the curve component forces the beam members 102 a, 102 b to rejoin each other in the joined state. Thus, the beam assembly 100 is separated within the curve component 150 and is joined outside the curve component 150.

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a beam storage 160 and a beam assembly 100, according to an embodiment. The beam assembly 100 is stored in a rolled up configuration within the beam storage 160. This enables long beam assemblies 100 to be stored in a relatively compact space. The assembly will hundred can be stored in the beam storage 160 bypassing the beam assembly 100 the opening 161 of the beam storage 160.

FIG. 27B is a side sectional view of the beam storage 160 and the beam assembly 100 of FIG. 27A, according to an embodiment. The storage 160 includes a spiral separator 162 positioned within an interior of the beam storage 160. The spiral separator 160 policy spiraling trajectory within the interior of the beam storage 160.

In one embodiment, when the beam assembly 100 is to be stored within the storage 160, beam assembly 100 is passed through the opening 161 into the interior of the beam storage 160. As the beam assembly 100 is passed into the carrier of the beam storage 160, beam assembly 100 encounters the spiral separator 162. When the beam assembly 100 encounters the spiral assembly 162, the spiral separator 162 forces the separation of the first and second beam members 102 a, 102 b. The separated beam members 102 a, 102 b are relatively flexible compared to the joint state. This enables the separated beam members 102 a, 102 b to be rolled. In particular, as the beam assembly 100 is fed into the beam storage 160, the beam 102 a, 102 b follow the spiral path of the spiral separator 162. The result is that the beam assembly 100 is rolled up within the beam storage 160. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that other devices or mechanisms can be used to roll up and store it beam assembly 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosure. 

1. A device, comprising: a first beam member including: first tension elements; and first compression elements; a second beam member including: second tension elements; and second compression elements, wherein the first and second beam members are configured to join together to form a beam assembly by interleaving the first and second compression elements.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein when the first and second beam members are separated from each other, the first and second beam members have a flexibility at least an order of magnitude greater than a flexibility of the beam assembly when the first and second compression elements are interleaved with each other.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein flexibility corresponds to linear deflection in a cantilevered configuration.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein, the first tension elements extend between adjacent first compression elements, wherein the second tension elements extend between adjacent second compression elements.
 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the first compression elements protrude from the first tension elements, wherein the second compression elements protrude from the second tension elements.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the first compression elements have a substantially rectangular cross section.
 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the first compression elements define a substantially hollow rectangle.
 8. The device of claim 4, wherein: the first compression elements each include a first gap; the first beam member includes a plurality of first vertical protrusions each protruding from a respective first tension element; the second compression elements each include a second gap; the second beam member includes a plurality of second vertical protrusions each protruding from a respective second tension element; each first protrusion extends into a respective second gap when the first and second beam members are joined together; and each second protrusion extends into a respective first gap when the first and second beam members are joined together.
 9. The device of claim 8, wherein: the first compression elements each include a respective first horizontal protrusion; and the second compression elements each include a respective second horizontal protrusion.
 10. The device of claim 1, wherein: when the first and second beam members are joined together each first tension element contacts a respective second compression element; and when the first and second beam members are joined together each second tension element contacts a respective first compression element.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the first and second beam members include a polymer material.
 12. A device comprising: a first beam member including: a plurality of first flexible elements; and a plurality of first protrusions each protruding relative to the first flexible elements and each positioned between two first flexible elements; a second beam member including: a plurality of second flexible elements; and a plurality of second protrusions each protruding relative to the first flexible elements and each positioned between two second flexible elements, wherein the first and second beam members are configured to join together to form a beam assembly by interleaving the first and second protrusions.
 13. The device of claim 12, further comprising: a first reinforcer coupled to a surface of the first beam member and including third protrusions protruding within the first protrusions; and a second reinforcer coupled to a surface of the second beam member and including fourth protrusions protruding within the second protrusions.
 14. The device of claim 12, wherein: the first beam member includes: a plurality of first reinforcers each extending along a length of the first beam member and passing through the first protrusions; and a plurality of first slots positioned in the first protrusions; the second beam member includes: a plurality of second reinforcers each extending along a length of the second beam member and passing through the second protrusions; and a plurality of second slots positioned in the second protrusions; the first slots are configured to receive the second reinforcers when the first and second beam members are joined together; and the second slots are configured to receive the first reinforcers when the first and second beam members are joined together.
 15. The device of claim 14, wherein the first and second reinforcers are metal.
 16. The device of claim 12, wherein a length of the first tension elements is approximately equal to a length of the first compression elements.
 17. The device of claim 16, wherein a ratio of a thickness of the first compression elements to the length of the first tension elements is between 0.4 and 0.8.
 18. A device comprising: a first beam member including: a substantially flat top surface; an uneven bottom surface defined by an array of first protrusions protruding downward; a second beam member including: a substantially flat bottom surface; an uneven top surface defined by an array of second protrusions protruding upward, wherein the first and second beam members are configured to be joined together as a beam assembly by interleaving the first and second protrusions, wherein when the first and second beam members are joined together the beam assembly has a flexibility that is at least an order of magnitude lower than a flexibility of either the first and second beam members when they, are separated from each other.
 19. The device of claim 18, wherein the first and second beam members are each unitary.
 20. The device of claim 18, wherein each first protrusion is in contact with two second protrusions when the first and second beam members are joined together. 